What is a Project Validation Report (PVR)?

As the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games approach, you might hear the term ‘PVR’ mentioned in the media or in stories that talk about exciting infrastructure projects for the Games. 

While many people may have heard the term ‘Business Case’ before, what is a PVR? And how does it influence the infrastructure projects happening in a neighbourhood near you? 

Put simply, Project Validation Reports (PVRs) are Business Cases completed by the Games Venue and Legacy Delivery Authority (GVLDA) for many government funded infrastructure projects aligned to the Games.

The term ‘PVR’ is often interchangeable with ‘Business Case’ as the purpose is to check that new and upgraded sporting venues identified for the Games stack up in terms of benefits and costs. These reports ensure investments into infrastructure are both fit-for-purpose for hosting Games events in 2032, and provide an ongoing community legacy for future generations. 

These reports summarise the analysis undertaken and options explored so governments can make informed investment decisions before any purchasing or venue construction begins. 

Why do I need to know about PVRs? 

Funds the government spend on infrastructure are carefully considered to ensure the best outcomes for that investment and for Queensland. The infrastructure investment associated with the Games is no different. 

The process shows whether Games-related venue investments are:  

• fit for purpose and scoped well 
• affordable
• delivering lasting benefits for the growing community  
• delivering sustainable solutions  
• including the private sector and local businesses in relevant opportunities 
• deliverable using a risk-assessed plan that highlights on-time delivery and budget 
• considering stakeholder and community interests.  

As the reports are finalised, summaries of completed PVRs or Business Cases for sport venues will be available for everyone to view at Q2032.au/plans/venues-and-villages

What topics are covered in a PVR? 

Knowing the community will enjoy the venue for years to come is a key consideration of a PVR, as is the need to ensure a new or upgraded venue is fit-for-purpose for the International Olympic Committee and International Paralympic Committee competition venue standards.  

The reports consider best practice design, environmental sustainability standards and commitments under the Olympic and Paralympic Host Contract. The PVRs also consider the operating costs, operating model, employment benefits and social impacts. 

Finally, PVRs look at how the venue is going to be built or upgraded, including the best procurement, delivery and operational model for the project, taking into consideration market trends. 

Is this a new process? 

No. Undertaking an investigation, planning and validation process for infrastructure investment is not a new concept. Governments have similar processes for all major infrastructure projects.

The term ‘PVR’ was developed specifically in relation to the Olympic and Paralympic Games bid which helped Brisbane secure the 2032 Games, however some of these analysis reports may still be referred to as the more commonly known ‘Business Case’.

For venues proposed to be used for the Games in 2032, GVLDA is managing the process of developing the PVRs to ensure all new and upgraded venues follow a consistent approach and achieve consistent goals.

What happens after a venue goes through the PVR process? 

The Australian and Queensland governments consider the results of the PVR or Business Case and whether to approve investment to deliver the project.  

If the report confirms the venue is good for the Games, good for the community and good for Queensland, the project can progress to a final design and a tender process ahead of construction starting.